Marijuana and Youth Health

Download facts about marijuana and youth health

In Denver, marijuana use is only legal for individuals 21 years or older. Research shows that the
tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) in marijuana can harm the developing brain and cause problems even after marijuana use ends.
For this reason, it is not recommended that youth or adolescents even consider using marijuana until 25 when the brain is fully mature.

Marijuana Use among Denver Youth

Marijuana use among Denver youth is higher than both state and national averages.

In 2011, 28% of Denver high school students reported use within the past 30 days, compared to 22% in Colorado and 23 % in the United States.

After alcohol, marijuana continues to be the most used substance among Denver youth. Youth even report using marijuana more frequently than tobacco.

The average age of first time marijuana use in Colorado is 14 years.

How Does Marijuana Affect Youth Health?

The tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) in marijuana specifically affects the areas of the brain—pleasure, memory,
thinking, concentration, sensory and time perception, and coordinated movement—which continue developing until 25.

Research suggests that regular use of marijuana during adolescence may result in:

Memory problems

Increased risky behavior, such as driving under the influence of marijuana

Moderate decrease in IQ with heavy use

Mental health issues, such as impaired emotional development

Marijuana affects everyone differently. There are some common short-term effects people using marijuana report,
which are mentioned in the Marijuana and Your Health section of our site.

Why Is Marijuana So Appealing to the Developing Brain?

The adolescent brain craves pleasure but isn’t mature enough yet to weigh risks.
This may result in youth using marijuana because they crave the good feelings, or the “high,” without having the
ability to think about potential long-term consequences as an adult would.

Not everyone who uses marijuana develops a marijuana addiction, or cannabis use disorder. However, research shows that one in six people
who use marijuana as a teen will develop an addiction (compared to one in 11 people who start using marijuana as an adult.)

Talking about Marijuana Use during Adolescence Is Important

While the majority of Denver high school students (72%) did not use marijuana within the last month,
experimentation with substances like marijuana, alcohol and tobacco during teenage years is common. Parents play a crucial role in
preventing, delaying and/or reducing the use of these substances.

Local data show that when a child perceives that his or her parent approves of marijuana use,
that child is three times more likely to use marijuana, compared to a child who perceives that his or her parent disapproves of marijuana
use 67% versus 21%).

Talking directly to youth about responsible marijuana use is recommended so youth can make informed decisions
and practice responsible behavior if/when use occurs. Some tips for parents include:

Talk to your children. It is never too early to start to have an age-appropriate, non-judgmental discussion. Be clear and specific about your family expectations about marijuana use.

Be a good role model. Children learn from their parents/guardians. Demonstrate positive behaviors by not using or driving under the influence of marijuana or other substances around your children.

Safely store all marijuana products. Some products, particularly edible ones like gummy bears or brownies, may appeal to children. Store all marijuana products in child-resistant containers and lock them away like you would any medication or cleaning supply.